Because my father was a navy man, I grew up in a regimented household. As a result, from a young age, I was disciplined and well-organised. Dad instilled a strong work ethic in me, which would take me a long way.
But while it was a good foundation, my upbringing also suppressed me somewhat as an individual, which meant I played it safe, staying in my own comfort zone and rarely thinking outside of the box. Although I found that applying myself diligently brought a certain level of success, especially in building my professional career, I soon discovered the joys of not limiting myself and daring to have ‘Big Hairy Audacious Goals’.
While it is important to adopt the values, vision and mission of the organisation in which you work, my experience also taught me that independent thought, common sense, problem-solving and going above and beyond the call of duty enables you to add further value to what you are doing. Curiosity is a wonderful thing. So rather than simply undertake each task expected of you, take the time to understand the ‘why’ behind it. Why is it important? What will it achieve or how will the results be used? In understanding the context, you will get to see the bigger picture and so find better ways to achieve the desired result.
Exploiting your full potential
It is all about making the best use of your time while pursuing a goal and building strong relationships along the way. If you make lifelong learning and personal development a continuous aim, it opens doors to greater opportunities and possibilities. Your skills and knowledge will undoubtedly play a big part in helping you to secure the right role or promotion. But your attitude, ability to adapt and demonstrate reliability are just as important. For instance, it is essential to embrace rather than resist change, while demonstrating integrity and playing your part in ensuring a positive team atmosphere at the same time.
So bearing all of this in mind, when seeking to exploit your full potential at work, you could always offer to take on additional responsibilities (without additional pay) where possible. Doing so often leads to promotions and pay rises further down the track. Be realistic and patient though — you are unlikely to become chief executive within a year.
Seizing opportunities
But if someone offers you an opportunity that appeals, grab it with both hands - even if it seems to be at the ‘wrong time’ - and work out how to do it later. Challenge yourself to move out of your comfort zone and you will be amazed at what you can achieve. Even if the opportunity is only a temporary one, for instance, as acting manager, if you can prove your worth, other chances will appear.
Do not point the finger at someone else or hang your head in shame if you make a mistake though. We are all human and things happen. First of all, admit it and find a solution to the problem. Once it is resolved, then learn from it and move on. Focus on what else you want to accomplish and continue solving problems. Do not look behind you as that is the past. Focus on what is ahead and keep your eye on the prize.
Moreover, if something seems impossible, try and think around it creatively. It is not always necessary to reinvent the wheel so look for shortcuts. Think about what you are trying to accomplish, be resourceful, work with others for mutual benefit - and you are bound to succeed.
Five tips to succeed at work
1. Dress for success — wear clothes that make you feel confident
2. Learn as much as you can while contributing above and beyond the scope of your role. Ask the person who gave you the assignment what the ideal outcome is and strive to meet or exceed it
3. Always show yourself to be trustworthy, learn how to keep a secret and do not gossip
4. Be proactive and anticipate others’ needs
5. Develop a good rapport with work colleagues to ensure you have a positive support network in place.
Nikki Arnold is an author, speaker, coach and director of Inspired Living International. Her new book is entitled PositiviThink: How to Thrive, Not Just Survive.
Because my father was a navy man, I grew up in a regimented household. As a result, from a young age, I was disciplined and well-organised. Dad instilled a strong work ethic in me, which would take me a long way.
But while it was a good foundation, my upbringing also suppressed me somewhat as an individual, which meant I played it safe, staying in my own comfort zone and rarely thinking outside of the box. Although I found that applying myself diligently brought a certain level of success, especially in building my professional career, I soon discovered the joys of not limiting myself and daring to have ‘Big Hairy Audacious Goals’.
While it is important to adopt the values, vision and mission of the organisation in which you work, my experience also taught me that independent thought, common sense, problem-solving and going above and beyond the call of duty enables you to add further value to what you are doing. Curiosity is a wonderful thing. So rather than simply undertake each task expected of you, take the time to understand the ‘why’ behind it. Why is it important? What will it achieve or how will the results be used? In understanding the context, you will get to see the bigger picture and so find better ways to achieve the desired result.
Exploiting your full potential
It is all about making the best use of your time while pursuing a goal and building strong relationships along the way. If you make lifelong learning and personal development a continuous aim, it opens doors to greater opportunities and possibilities. Your skills and knowledge will undoubtedly play a big part in helping you to secure the right role or promotion. But your attitude, ability to adapt and demonstrate reliability are just as important. For instance, it is essential to embrace rather than resist change, while demonstrating integrity and playing your part in ensuring a positive team atmosphere at the same time.
So bearing all of this in mind, when seeking to exploit your full potential at work, you could always offer to take on additional responsibilities (without additional pay) where possible. Doing so often leads to promotions and pay rises further down the track. Be realistic and patient though — you are unlikely to become chief executive within a year.
Seizing opportunities
But if someone offers you an opportunity that appeals, grab it with both hands - even if it seems to be at the ‘wrong time’ - and work out how to do it later. Challenge yourself to move out of your comfort zone and you will be amazed at what you can achieve. Even if the opportunity is only a temporary one, for instance, as acting manager, if you can prove your worth, other chances will appear.
Do not point the finger at someone else or hang your head in shame if you make a mistake though. We are all human and things happen. First of all, admit it and find a solution to the problem. Once it is resolved, then learn from it and move on. Focus on what else you want to accomplish and continue solving problems. Do not look behind you as that is the past. Focus on what is ahead and keep your eye on the prize.
Moreover, if something seems impossible, try and think around it creatively. It is not always necessary to reinvent the wheel so look for shortcuts. Think about what you are trying to accomplish, be resourceful, work with others for mutual benefit - and you are bound to succeed.
Five tips to succeed at work
1. Dress for success — wear clothes that make you feel confident
2. Learn as much as you can while contributing above and beyond the scope of your role. Ask the person who gave you the assignment what the ideal outcome is and strive to meet or exceed it
3. Always show yourself to be trustworthy, learn how to keep a secret and do not gossip
4. Be proactive and anticipate others’ needs
5. Develop a good rapport with work colleagues to ensure you have a positive support network in place.
Nikki Arnold is an author, speaker, coach and director of Inspired Living International. Her new book is entitled PositiviThink: How to Thrive, Not Just Survive.
